Veteran Hong Kong entertainer Simon Lui Yue-yeung, known for hosting the radio program “Banana Club” and starring in the classic horror film series “Troublesome Night,” died of stomach cancer in Guangzhou on April 7. He was 62.
Lui’s close friend, Brother Zhixiong, confirmed the news after speaking with the actor’s wife. “She said Lui passed away on Monday in Guangzhou due to stomach cancer,” Zhixiong told local media. The friend noted that Lui had initially beaten the disease and recovered, but the cancer unfortunately returned in recent years. After the relapse, Lui largely withdrew from social circles, choosing to face his illness privately.
A Multifaceted Career in Entertainment
Lui began his career in the 1980s, gaining popularity as a host of the influential radio show “Banana Club,” a program that blended humor, music, and pop culture commentary. His distinctive voice and quick wit made him a household name among Cantonese-speaking audiences.
He later transitioned to film and television, most notably appearing in the long-running “Troublesome Night” horror-comedy series, which spanned more than a dozen installments from the 1990s into the early 2000s. Lui’s performances in these films, often playing hapless or comedic characters, cemented his status as a familiar face in Hong Kong cinema.
Colleagues remember Lui as a dedicated professional who brought levity to every set. “He had a rare ability to make people laugh even during long shooting hours,” said a former co-star who asked not to be named. “His energy was infectious.”
A Private Battle with Cancer
Lui’s health struggles came into public view only after his death. According to friends, he was diagnosed with stomach cancer several years ago and underwent treatment that initially appeared successful. However, the cancer later returned, prompting Lui to step away from the entertainment industry and limit contact with all but his closest family members.
“It was his choice to handle this quietly,” Brother Zhixiong explained. “He didn’t want sympathy or attention. He just wanted to focus on his health and his family.”
Stomach cancer is the fifth most common cancer worldwide, according to the World Health Organization, with particularly high rates in East Asia. Early detection significantly improves survival rates, but symptoms such as indigestion, bloating, and loss of appetite are often mistaken for less serious conditions.
Legacy and Reflection
Lui is survived by his wife, who has requested privacy during this time. No funeral arrangements have been announced publicly.
Fans and fellow entertainers have taken to social media to express their condolences, posting clips from “Banana Club” and stills from “Troublesome Night” to remember the actor’s contributions to Hong Kong pop culture.
For those concerned about stomach cancer risk, medical experts recommend regular checkups—especially for individuals with a family history of the disease—and paying attention to persistent digestive issues. The Hong Kong Cancer Fund offers free information and support for patients and caregivers.
Simon Lui’s quiet battle and enduring work remind audiences that behind the laughter on screen, some fights are fought alone.
